The R71 through Magoebaskloof in Limpopo has been closed until further notice after a truck carrying gas cylinders crashed in the early hours of this morning, sparking a mountain-side forest fire.

According to Polokwane Review, Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety acting spokesperson Matome Taueatsoala, in a statement posted just after 08:00, said the blaze is as a result of a crash involving a truck carrying gas cylinders.

Emergency response teams including the Letaba Fire Protection Association, Tzaneen Fire Brigade, SARZA Limpopo, Disaster Management and the Tzaneen Emergency Support Team were quickly dispatched.

By 04:30, crews were still battling the fire, which was creeping down the mountain towards Warriors Camp, making access to the explosion site too dangerous.

“It is too dangerous to access at the moment,” a message on a local WhatsApp group read.

Polokwane Review reports that messages on a local emergency WhatsApp group suggest the truck lost control and crashed through the barrier just above the Magoebaskloof Ruskamp as a result of failing brakes and burst into flames at around 01:00.

“Emergency services are still at the scene and although most of the wreckage has been cleared and majority of the consequential fire in the surrounding forest extinguished, the pass remains closed. We have also had reports that the fire has reached the property of the Warriors Basecamp and they are fighting to prevent it from reaching the barn on the property,” a message reads.

A video taken by a passing motorist shows flames engulfing a section of the forest, with explosions audible in the background.

“Woah! That’s definitely a truck with something that’s exploding. It’s got something on it,” the driver can be heard saying.

Authorities have reminded motorists that heavy vehicles are not permitted to use the R71 and should instead take George’s Valley Road as an alternative route.

The R71 will remain closed until further notice, and road users are urged to avoid the area. It is also reported that the driver of the truck escaped without injuries.

Casualties are yet to be confirmed despite previous reports of one fatality. Taueatsoala said motorists are advised to use the following alternative routes:

• George’s Valley Road (R528 road)
• R81 via Modjadjiskloof

“Motorists can also use alternative routes as directed by our traffic authorities. We urge all motorists to exercise caution and prioritise their safety. We will provide updates as more information becomes available,” his statement reads.

Watch the video:

@polokwanereview

🚨 A gas tanker exploded on the R71 in Magoebaskloof, Limpopo earlier this morning. One person has died, the road is closed, and emergency crews are on scene. Avoid the area! #Magoebaskloof #R71 #BreakingNews #polokwanereview #limpopo

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